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The F45 fitness center in Kaka’ako has about 500 active members, but come the new year, they will likely have to exercise elsewhere
The popular gym has been at its Kawaiahao Street location for the past five years, under a lease with Ward Village
“It’s not just a gym. They (members) come for the community. We’re one of the busiest F45s in the country,” owner Sara Freeman said. “We are serving members of the community, members of Kaka’ako.”
The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) bought the property last September with plans to convert it into affordable housing
HCDA wants to solicit proposals from other potential lessees
Freeman said F45 supports the project, but wants to remain at the site until it starts, since it’s been struggling to find a new location
“In the interim, so not delaying the project,” Freeman added. “We’re already there. We’re already established.”
When asked about F45’s request, the HCDA told Hawaii News Now:
“Although some have misunderstood this action as an effort to remove the current tenant, its actual purpose is to support the public’s desire for a more open and transparent leasing process through a public call for interest in a short-term lease. The current tenant may absolutely express their interest in continuing to lease the property. However, this item is meant to allow others in the community the opportunity to submit proposals as well, rather than extending an existing lease without public participation. This approach reflects priorities raised in earlier conversations with both the current tenant and members of the community. The current tenant’s lease is set to expire in October, but will be extended for an additional 3–4 months to allow adequate time for this process to take place.”
The agency was set to discuss the lease during a meeting on Wednesday, which it canceled because of an administrative error
“Today’s meetings were canceled due to an incorrect email address listed for submitting written testimony. This error will be corrected and the meetings rescheduled to allow everyone sufficient time and opportunity to submit testimony,” it said
F45 members planning to attend and testify talked about the matter at the gym instead
“It’s quite disturbing. This is sort of the like perfect location, commercial space is at a premium right now,” member Jason Taira said. “To have this opportunity not just to work out, but to really build a community here. All of the members are so close, it’s not like any other gym I’ve ever been to.”
Member Nainoa Pihana added, “Just the vibe that we have over here. The coaches, the community that comes, the clients that come through. It really builds a family.”
Amid the uncertainty as the HCDA continues discussions, Freeman said F45 will continue searching for a new space
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